With all our legs lacking the oomph they had at the beginning of the holiday (including those of us with four legs) and a precarious weather forecast, we opted against the high stuff in favour of a ramble in the Central Fells via Ashness Bridge. We were just musing about the fact that Ashness Bridge is one of the most photographed views in the Lake District, when on cue the ‘Lakes Super Bus’ turned up, packed with Japanese tourists…armed with cameras…and obligatory sun hats….very amusing…they were there just 6 mins to get their snaps…before being herded on the next ‘big attraction’. Must thank them for the entertainment!

From our lunch spot on Dodd, we had the most amazing panoramic views and an especially fitting end to the holiday since we could take in everywhere that we have ‘bagged’ so far….and the list is becoming formidable. From right to left in view the list includes Blencathra (2,847 ft), Skiddaw (3,054 ft), Grisdale Pike (2,595 ft), Eel Crag (2,752 ft), Cat Bells (1,480 ft), Maiden Moor (1,890 ft), High Spy (2,242 ft), Great Gable (2,949 ft), Green Gable (2,628 ft)….a real sense of achievement….but next time we here, we are going to have to start going further afield….which means getting up earlier….hummm…

Reached the summit of High Seat (1,995 ft) which looked down to Thirlmere and across to Helvellyn (3,117 ft), which we have also summited previously. The top was a massive bog, which pleased Julian since he wouldn’t have deemed it a ‘proper walk’ unless we had all been up to our armpits in stinking bog juice…..flo smelling particularly fragrant.

Back down Cat Ghyll as the tops became shrouded in thick cloud…a lucky escape without getting wet….

Ashness Bridge - Looking down to Derwent Water

Derwent Water, Cat Bells and Maiden Moor

Derwent Water with Bassenthwaite Lake behind

Scramble up some rocks to lunch stop. Mountain Dog needed a shove from behind, bewildered by the whole experience.....better than taking the conventional route up the Ghyll...

Dodd for butties and cake...Skiddaw in all it's finery in the background

Eel Cragg (birthday walk) Grisdale Pike and Causey Pike

Any more biscuits??

Cairn on top of Dodd. Blencathra in the background

Summit of High Seat (1,995 ft) with the Helvelyn Range in the background. It is the highest point for about 5 miles in any direction; a consequence of the curious fact that the centre of the district is lower than the surrounding parts.